Around 50 percent of all job-seekers find a new job by networking. If you always take good care of your personal and professional network, it can be worth its weight in gold when the time is right.

You want to – or have to – find a new job. Keep your ears to the ground and your eyes open: didn't a former colleague recently say that that major project was due to start in six months time, that and the workforce was already up to its neck in overtime? And what about your female friend, who said with a sweet smile on her face that she was expecting twins? If you could fill that gap, in other words be a perfect candidate for the job; you could be in the right place at the right time – and possibly have no competition. However, this strategy only works if you have taken good care of your relationships. Going out for a beer once every five years is not enough.

The significance of the personal network is constantly increasing, and this is evidenced by the mountains of available statistics. Apparently around 50 percent of all job-seekers find jobs by networking. Therefore, there's no room for false modesty in your job search - reach for your book of contact: tell all your relatives and acquaintances, friends and club colleagues that you are on the market, what you can do and what you are looking for. If you had a good working relationship with former work colleagues, tell them too. It is important not to ask them for a job, but to seek their advice. Many people are glad to help. Also bear in mind that your network also has a network, and that this in turn also has one. According to a mathematical rule, every person is actually networked to the world's entire population via six acquaintances chosen at random. It is also possible to make use of the networks of recruitment consultants.

Specialist editors compile valuable tips on job applications and on looking for jobs. Finding a vacancy which matches your needs is important. Composing a professional job application is equally central for a successful job search. First impressions count, so your job application should be well written.